Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – President Adama Barrow has expressed his willingness to engage in direct talks with Ousainou Darboe, the leader of the main opposition United Democratic Party (UDP), emphasizing that national interests should take precedence over political rivalries.
In an interview with QTV’s Alieu Ceesay, President Barrow stated that he has no personal grievances with Darboe and remains open to discussions on national issues, including the country’s constitutional reforms.
“I am more than willing to engage with Ousainou Darboe directly. I have worked with that man for 10 years,” Barrow said. “He is my father, my political father. I have respect for him. We are not enemies. We all have good intentions for this country.”
His remarks come amid ongoing tensions between the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) and the UDP, particularly over the stalled constitutional reform process. Despite past political differences, Barrow stressed that cooperation is essential for moving the country forward.
“If you are an important stakeholder, obviously, as the president, I am also an important stakeholder. So, for us to sit together and discuss in the supreme interest of this country, I will be more than happy and willing,” he added.
Commitment to Constitutional Reform
On the issue of constitutional reform, President Barrow reiterated his support for a new national charter, noting that the 2020 draft constitution was “democratically rejected” in parliament. He acknowledged concerns about certain provisions but insisted that the focus should be on national progress rather than political divisions.
“This constitution is for Gambians, and we want a constitution that is very inclusive,” he said. “We don’t want a president who is powerless. You cannot run your country if nobody fears you. That will not help our country.”
Barrow underscored his strong support for presidential term limits, a key provision in the proposed draft.
“I’m a big fan of term limits. Really. A big one. Most presidents overstay in power, and when you overstay, you run out of ideas. We don’t want that to happen in this country,” he asserted.
Rejection of Political “Ping Pong”
Addressing concerns about partisan gridlock in the National Assembly, President Barrow dismissed claims that the draft constitution is merely a contest between the NPP and UDP.
“This is not about the NPP and UDP. This is about The Gambia,” he said. “All our positions today exist because the Gambian people put us there. If they want to remove me, they will. The power belongs to the people.”
He urged opposition members to engage constructively in the reform process rather than reject the draft outright.
“We are open to discussions, open to talking to anybody,” Barrow affirmed.
His remarks signal a potential shift in political engagement, as the country seeks a new constitution that balances democratic governance with executive authority. Whether this call for dialogue will lead to tangible negotiations remains to be seen.
